Wireless lock sensory delivery and control device, system and method

ABSTRACT

The invention discloses a wireless lock sensory delivery and control device, system and method comprising a wireless lock and alarm connected to and controlled by Bluetooth connection to a remote device such as a cell phone, tablet, computer or PDA. The lock and alarm can be adjusted by the user remotely through the remote device, to control and modulate functions including alarms, sirens or other sound emitters; shock and movement sensors; lights; global positioning system (GPS) location and tracking components; battery strength detection components; alarm and lock testing and diagnostic feedback mechanisms; registration and warranty monitors; and data collection and storage components. The functionality can be further expanded by adding optional accessories which include but are not limited to additional GPS modules, boosters or range extenders, ancillary external alarms, lighting systems, cameras or other subsystems capable of responding to a wireless signal, and these accessories can be attached directly to the locked device, structure or vehicle and connected to the alarm system automatically upon arming the system.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.62/064,426, filed Oct. 15, 2014.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH/DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable.

REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING, A TABLE, OR COMPUTER PROGRAM LISTINGCOMPACT DISC APPENDIX

Not applicable.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to locking mechanisms and alarms. Morespecifically, it discloses a device, system and method for activation,sensory feedback and control of mechanical locks and corresponding alarmfunctionality. Conventional mechanical lock components are integratedwith low energy transceiver capacity to expand function and wirelesscontrol of lock and alarm protection.

DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART

Related art for this invention includes devices for remotely locking orunlocking objects or structures, as well as methods for controllingBluetooth devices through portable controllers.

Bluetooth controlled locks exist in commerce. There are keyless systemsfor structures, Bluetooth padlocks, and lock fobs that can be programmedwith basic lock activation functions. However, the existing related artprovides limited functionality. They can provide simple opening/closingfunctions, and in some cases motion sensors. In general, the existingrelated art also fails to provide a Bluetooth controlled lock that hassufficient mechanical strength to deter theft from higher cost articlessuch as motorcycles, boats, etc. More specifically, the related art doesnot provide functionality to modulate sensitivity for use in variousenvironments, or to set and reset or change the volume of the alarm orsiren. The present invention also provides GPS tracking, feedback onoperation, the ability to extend range, lighting controls, and othersensitivity delivery and control functions which have not beenpreviously made, used or disclosed.

An additional advantage that this device, system and method has overrelated art is that by utilizing Bluetooth technology, alarm and otherfunctional circuitry can be minimized. It enables wireless operation aswell as remote control. By reducing the quantity of circuitrycomponents, the device and system can be made and therefore sold moreeconomically, reducing cost.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention incorporates low energy radio transceivers (BLE) within aconventional mechanical lock system. The device comprises a heavy-dutymechanical lock; a module within said lock which includes low-energyradio transceivers integrated with a printed circuit board ormicrocontroller board capable of communication with externalfunctionality components; one or more power source(s); and a mobiledevice link such as Bluetooth or other low energy radio transceiver. Thedevice is remotely actuated, controlled and adjusted by the user througha mobile device link by a remote device, such as a cell phone, PDA,computer, tablet, Bluetooth wristwatch, or other connectable remotesources for data and information.

Alternate embodiments of the mechanical lock components include but arenot limited to a barrel and key type, or a coded lock; the inventioncontemplates various conventional mechanical locking means. Theseconventional mechanical components are enhanced by the inclusion ofelectronic components in the form of a module within a lock bodydesigned to communicate with an alarm system that allows programmablefunctions. The electronic module includes, but is not limited to, aprinted circuit board (PCB) or microcontroller board capable ofassociating with the alarm system and other components, transceiver,shock and movement sensors, a siren or sound emitter, and a primarypower source. Optionally, other external associated electroniccomponents can include but are not limited to a sub-module for use witha global positioning system and a sub-module for connecting to awireless communications network, a secondary power source, lightingsystems, range extenders, external alarms, security cameras, and devicesfor communications with ancillary locks. The printed circuit boardcomprises a wireless transceiver, basic microprocessor functionality,and an accelerometer.

In a preferred embodiment, the invention incorporates a method of usethat includes a mobile communication device such as a cell phone ortablet to interface with and remotely command the various functions ofthe alarm system. The mobile device provides a means to remotely controlthe alarm system, and can be programmed to effectuate a wide variety offunctions. The various functions of this alarm system include but arenot limited to such capabilities as arming and disarming the alarm;modifying the volume of the alarm, siren or noise-emitting device;altering the sensitivity of the shock or movement sensors, or changingthe length of time or duration that the alarm will continue to emitnoise. An optional external GPS module and module for connecting to awireless communications network may be incorporated to provide regular,discrete transmissions containing location data and to communicate thisdata over a wireless network such as an established cell phone towernetwork. Additionally, it provides the ability to deliver remoteinstrument functionality support, feedback and diagnostics from a webinterface the user can readily access. A primary power source will powerthe internal electronic components as well as provide power to the alarmeither indirectly through the PCB or directly with a separate powerattachment. A secondary power source will supply the optional GPSmodule. A preferred embodiment utilizes a standard battery; one skilledin the art would appreciate that other power sources, such as but notlimited to capacitors, solar power components or other alternativeenergy generation and storage devices could also be used.

The invention disclosed allows users to interactively set and resetcustom settings for use in various locations and environments. Theseinclude but are not limited to such settings as city, village, garage,and day/nighttime. The system is capable of automatic adjustment ofthese parameters consistent with the location and environment in whichit is used. This is useful because in noisier areas or those with moremotion, such as a city street, the sensitivity of the system could bereduced to minimize accidental triggering of the alarm or sirenfunctions.

The use of wireless communications technology allows the lock system tobe connected to, or network with, external functionality components thatcomprise alarms, sirens or other sound emitters; shock and movementsensors; lights; global positioning system (GPS) location and trackingcomponents; battery strength detection components; alarm and locktesting and diagnostic feedback mechanisms; registration and warrantymonitors; and data collection and storage components. Accessories suchas GPS modules, boosters or range extenders, ancillary external alarms,lighting systems, cameras or other subsystems capable of responding to awireless signal can be optionally added. These accessories can beattached directly to the locked device or vehicle and connected to thealarm system automatically upon arming the system.

In one embodiment, the invention disclosed includes a method ofproviding feedback and technical support to users of a lock devicewherein a text, email or phone message can be sent to the user if thealarm is triggered, and the locked object, vehicle or structure can betracked in real time.

The invention disclosed herein can be further explained through adiscussion of its objects and related functions.

An object of the invention is to allow a user to connect to the alarmmodule within the lock to tailor calibration of the sensors, therebyadjusting sensitivity of the alarm. Active filtering can also enhancethe ability of the system to prevent false alarms. For example,background noise and vibration from fast moving traffic could befiltered out, reducing or eliminating alarm triggering as a result ofunintentional or unavoidable background activity. Feedback from themodule or from user input at the mobile or remote interface allows theuser to modify the settings of the system for steady-state orreprogrammed performance of the system's functionality, allowing forcontinued use if the settings are working or modification of thesettings based on the feedback provided.

Another object of the invention is to allow modulation of the volume,duration, and sound characteristics of the alarm and siren. One exampleof this functionality is to make the siren progressively louder orlonger upon subsequent triggering of the alarm to minimize unduedisturbance while maximizing protection from the threat of theft ortampering. Another function consistent with this object is to providedifferent siren sounds for personalization or differentiation of thealarm.

A different object of the invention is to provide a user with theability to remotely set (arm or disarm) or trigger the alarm, and toadjust alarm activation delay (the time before the alarm goes off afterdetecting shock or movement), and separately to adjust the alarmactivation time before rest (the time the alarm sounds before reset).

A further object of the invention is to allow data collection andstorage by an application program or software from the modules withinthe device to monitor such components as battery strength and reserve,alarm dates and log, and provide self-testing and diagnostics of thelock and alarm system. Such data collection and storage also provides ameans for tracking serial number and warranty status of the lock system,automatic registration and warranty monitoring for customers. Bygenerating reports or data providing feedback and technical support tousers of a lock device, which includes sending or reception of a text,email or phone message which is sent to the user if the alarm istriggered, a means for the locked object, structure or vehicle to betracked in real time is provided.

It is also an object of the invention to provide a lock and remotelyactivated and controlled alarm system for bicycles, motorbikes,scooters, boats, airplanes, motor vehicles or other motorized vehiclesand other two- and three-wheeled or non-automobile vehicles to preventtheft or tampering.

A separate, further object is to provide an alarm and method for aremotely activated and controlled alarm system for use with a compatibleconventional padlock or U-lock. Examples of applicability of this deviceand method include but are not limited to use on doors, windows,buildings, sheds, storage areas, and other structures or structuralcomponents, storage units, commercial or industrial equipment, gates,shipping or storage containers, or toolboxes.

Each of the foregoing objects and functions are effectuated andcontrolled individually by the user through use of a wirelesscommunications network. Individually operated and commercially availabledevices such as, but not limited to cell phones, tablets, and PDA's willbe appropriate for this connection and can be activated through softwareor application downloads. The use of low energy radio transceiver (BLE)technology provides an interface between the lock, its alarm and sirencomponents and the user's own personal communication device.

All patents, patent applications, provisional patent applications andpublications referred to or cited herein are incorporated by referencein their entirety to the extent they are not inconsistent with theteachings of the specification.

DESCRIPTION OF THE REFERENCE NUMBERS

-   10 Bluetooth communication protocol-   20 Wireless communications network-   30 Bluetooth connected device-   40 Microcontroller board (PCB)-   50 Lock transceiver-   60 Sensors-   70 Global Positioning System (GPS) module-   80 Alarm module-   90 Secondary power source-   100 Primary power source-   110 GPS incoming location data

DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES IN THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 depicts a schematic diagram of the physical system or hardware.

FIG. 2 depicts a flow diagram showing inter-connectivity of the system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The invention disclosed is more fully understood by reference to theFigures in the drawings. FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of thephysical system or hardware. The microcontroller board 40, which islocated within the body of the Bluetooth lock, includes a locktransceiver 50 and sensors 60 which can detect motion and/or sound.Disturbances to the lock system, such as movement or tampering with thesystem, trigger an alarm and its associated siren, together the alarmmodule 80, which deters theft or unwanted contact. An optional GPSmodule 70 including GSM/GPS/Bluetooth can be integrated with the locksystem to communicate location data and can send information to and froma Bluetooth lock when the user or lock is out of range. This module canbe powered by a secondary power source 90 that is also capable ofbacking up a primary power source 100 which powers the system. Wirelesscontrol of the alarm module 80 and sensors 60 through the use of aBluetooth-enabled and connected device 30 allows for a variety offunctions, including but not limited to sensitivity adjustment of thesensors 60 and sound modulation of the alarm module 80.

FIG. 2 depicts a flow diagram showing inter-connectivity of the systemsetting forth the best mode for carrying out the invention and itsmethod of use. The Bluetooth lock is equipped with a module whichincludes a lock transceiver 50 located on the microcontroller board 40within the lock. Because it is contained within the lock, the module isprotected from tampering, disarming, weather or other physicalcompromise. The lock transceiver 50 is capable of integration with andprovides a means for communication between the lock hardware, includingbut not limited to the alarm module 80, sensors 60 and optional GPSmodule 70. The lock transceiver 50 which is on board thePCB/Microcontroller 40 shares a 2-way communication link via Bluetoothwith an external device to control lock system functions, report lockstatus, and provide trouble-shooting capability. This link usingBluetooth communication protocol 10 between the lock transceiver 50 andan external Bluetooth connected device 30 is illustrated. The externaldevice and GPS device link utilizes a wireless communications network 20that allows for communication of commands and information between thelock system and one or more external functionality components. The GPSmodule 70 incoming location data 110 allows the unit to receive locationdata from existing global positioning satellites. The Bluetooth devicetransceiver can also communicate information to another microcontroller40 from the GPS module. This way, Bluetooth enabled and connecteddevices can send information to and from Bluetooth integrated locks whenthe user or lock is out of range. Multiple and variousBluetooth-connected devices can send information to the lock transceiver50 to effectuate commands. The GPS module 70 can communicate to transmitinformation to and from a lock transceiver 50, as well as otherconnected Bluetooth devices such as a secondary microcontroller throughBluetooth communications protocol 10.

This invention also contemplates a method of use for a wireless lockcontrol system. A standard, mechanical lock equipped with a modulecontaining a Bluetooth or low energy radio transceiver (BLE) isactuated, adjusted and controlled by a user with a remote communicationsdevice. The user (1) downloads the software onto a mobile device; (2)mechanically closes the lock; (3) activates the alarm system wirelesslythrough the application on the mobile device; and (4) interacts with andmodulates the functions of the lock and alarm systems by using a link toaccess the software and associated controls on the mobile device.

While the description above discloses preferred embodiments of thepresent invention, it is contemplated that variations and modificationsof the invention are possible and are considered to be within the scopeof the claims that follow.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A mechanical lock and alarm system forlocking and remotely controlling the sensitivity and operative featuresof the lock and alarm system comprising: a. a heavy-duty mechanical lockcapable of securing an object or structure; b. an integrated modulewithin said mechanical lock, further comprising low-energy radiotransceivers actuated by a printed circuit board or microcontrollerboard capable of communication with external functionality components;c. one or more power source(s); and d. a downloadable application (app)for computer or mobile devices which connects to the locking mechanismvia Bluetooth or low energy radio transceiver mobile link and controlsfunctionality components connected to said lock and alarm system; saidapp provides a link from the lock and alarm system to the functionalitycontrols to: i. respond to sensory inputs from surrounding environmentalconditions; ii. provide an alert signal to a user; and iii. modulateperformance of the lock and alarm system including sensitivity of thelocking mechanism or volume and length of the alarm, based on user inputfrom a remote device, including a cell phone, PDA, computer, tablet,Bluetooth wristwatch, or other connectable remote sources for data andinformation.
 2. The system of claim 1 wherein said mechanical lockcomprises padlocks, barrel locks, dead locks, U-locks, key type, orcoded lock and other similar lock types.
 3. The system of claim 1wherein said external functionality components comprise alarms, sirensor other sound emitters; shock and movement sensors; lights; globalpositioning system (GPS) location and tracking components; batterystrength detection components; alarm and lock testing and diagnosticfeedback mechanisms; registration and warranty monitors; and datacollection and storage components.
 4. The system of claim 1 wherein saidfunctionality can be further expanded by adding optional accessorieswhich include additional GPS modules, boosters or range extenders,ancillary external alarms, lighting systems, cameras or other subsystemscapable of responding to a wireless signal, and wherein said accessoriescan be attached directly to the locked device, structure or vehicle andconnected to the alarm system automatically upon ing the system.
 5. Thesystem of claim 1 wherein said external functionality components includealarm, siren or other noise-emitting functions and sensitivity controlsthat can be turned on, off, extended in duration, or the volume can bechanged by the user from said remote device.
 6. The system of claim 1wherein said module is configured within said lock, and is thereforeprotected from tampering, disarming, weather, or other physicalcompromise.
 7. The system of claim 1 wherein said power source is abattery or electricity.
 8. The system of claim 7 wherein said battery orsaid electricity is sourced from alternative energy including solar orother renewable sources.
 9. The mechanical lock and alarm system ofclaim 1 wherein feedback from the module or from user input at themobile or remote interface is capable of modifying the settings of saidsystem for steady-state or reprogrammed performance of the system'sfunctionality.
 10. The mechanical lock and alarm system of claim 1comprising a lock and an electronic alarm activated and controlledthrough a Bluetooth connection between the mechanical lock and alarmsystem and the remote device; said remote device comprises the cellphone, PDA, computer, tablet, Bluetooth wristwatch, or other connectableremote sources for data and information; said connection functions toenable remote operation from a mobile device and eliminate circuitrywithin the device; said mechanical lock is capable of adjustable, userdefined external functionality including alarms, sirens or other soundemitters; shock and movement sensors; lights; global positioning system(GPS) location and tracking components; battery strength detectioncomponents; alarm and lock testing and diagnostic feedback mechanisms;registration and warranty monitors; and data collection and storagecomponents.
 11. The mechanical lock and alarm system of claim 1 whereinthe functionality can be further expanded by adding optional accessorieswhich include additional GPS modules, boosters or range extenders,ancillary external alarms, lighting systems, cameras or other subsystemscapable of responding to a wireless signal, and wherein said accessoriescan be attached directly to the locked device, structure or vehicle andconnected to the alarm system automatically upon arming the system andadjusted and controlled by the user remotely.
 12. A method of lockingobjects or structures comprising the steps of: a. Placing and physicallylocking a mechanical lock mechanism; b. Connecting the mechanical lockmechanism with the system in claim 1 and powering up the system and theconnected mechanism; c. Connecting the mechanism components viaBluetooth connection with the remote device comprising the tablet, cellphone or other mobile device; d. Positioning desired sensory and alarmor siren settings, e. Activating the system; f. Adjusting or changingthe sensitivity and other settings to comport with the environmentalconditions in the vicinity of said mechanical lock mechanism; g.Generating reports or data from said mechanism components and providingthis information to the user through said remote device.
 13. The methodof claim 12, wherein said objects include bicycles, motorbikes,scooters, boats, airplanes, motor vehicles or other motorized vehiclesand other two- and three-wheeled or non-automobile vehicles and whereinsaid structures include doors, windows, buildings, sheds, storage areas,and other structures or structural components, storage units, commercialor industrial equipment, gates, shipping or storage containers, ortoolboxes.
 14. The method of claim 12 wherein adjusting or changing thesensitivity and other settings further includes configuration orreconfiguration of said lock mechanism and lock settings, comprising theadditional steps of: a. Downloading software capable of interaction withsaid lock mechanism on to the mobile device; b. Powering on a modulewithin the lock; c. Connecting said module with said mobile devicethrough Bluetooth connection; d. Adjusting, configuring or setting thesettings on said mobile device to effect user preferred control andfunctionality.
 15. The method of claim 12 wherein generating reports ordata providing feedback and technical support to users of a lock devicefurther comprises the steps of downloading a mobile application andconnecting the system wirelessly through said mobile application tofacilitate sending or reception of a text, email or phone message whichis sent to the user if the alarm is triggered, whereby the lockedobject, structure or vehicle can be tracked in real time.
 16. The methodof claim 12 further including actuating, through said settings, externalfunctionality components comprising alarms, sirens or other soundemitters; shock and movement sensors; lights; global positioning system(GPS) location and tracking components; battery strength detectioncomponents; alarm and lock testing and diagnostic feedback mechanisms;registration and warranty monitors; and data collection and storagecomponents; and wherein the functionality can be further expanded byadding optional accessories which include additional GPS modules,boosters or range extenders, ancillary external alarms, lightingsystems, cameras or other subsystems capable of responding to a wirelesssignal, and wherein said accessories can be attached directly to thelocked device, structure or vehicle and connected to the alarm systemautomatically upon arming the system.
 17. A wireless lock sensorydelivery and control device system comprising a wireless lock and alarmconnected to and controlled by Bluetooth connection to a remote devicecomprising a cell phone, tablet, computer or PDA that can be adjusted bya user remotely through said remote device, to control and modulatefunctions including alarms, sirens or other sound emitters; shock andmovement sensors; lights; global positioning system (GPS) location andtracking components; battery strength detection components; alarm andlock testing and diagnostic feedback mechanisms; registration andwarranty monitors; and data collection and storage components; andwherein the functionality can be further expanded by adding optionalaccessories which include additional GPS modules, boosters or rangeextenders, ancillary external alarms, lighting systems, cameras or othersubsystems capable of responding to a wireless signal, and wherein saidaccessories can be attached directly to the locked device, structure orvehicle and connected to the alarm system automatically upon arming thesystem.
 18. The wireless lock sensory delivery and control device systemof claim 17 wherein said device comprises said lock integrated with saidalarm which can be controlled, adjusted and activated remotely viaBluetooth connection between said device and the cell phone, PDA,computer, tablet, Bluetooth wristwatch, or other connectable remotesources for data and information.